Angry in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “angry” in BSL conveys strong emotions and is commonly used in various contexts, such as expressing frustration or annoyance. It plays an important role in conversations within the Deaf community, where emotional expressions are often emphasized through facial expressions and body language.

How to Sign “Angry” in BSL

1. Start with both hands in a claw shape (like a ‘C’ shape) at the sides of your face.
2. Move your hands forward while pulling your fingers inwards slightly, as if you’re expressing a sudden burst of anger.
3. Maintain a frowning facial expression to reflect the emotion of anger.
4. Ensure your eyebrows are furrowed to enhance the intensity of the sign.
5. Optionally, you can add a slight shake of your head to emphasize your feelings further.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions, which are crucial in conveying the emotion accurately.
• Using flat hands instead of the claw shape, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Not moving the hands forward enough, leading to a less impactful expression of anger.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “angry” involves a claw shape and specific facial expressions, whereas, in ASL, the sign typically uses a different handshape and movement. This highlights the unique characteristics of each sign language and their distinct cultural contexts.

Related Signs

• Frustrated – A sign to express feelings of annoyance or disappointment.
• Sad – Used to convey feelings of sorrow or unhappiness.
• Happy – The opposite of angry, showing joy and positivity.
• Excited – Expressing enthusiasm or eagerness.
• Confused – Signaling uncertainty or lack of understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “angry” in a BSL sentence?

You can use “angry” in a sentence by placing it at the end, for example: “I feel angry” is signed as “I feel” + sign for “angry”.

Are there regional variations for the sign “angry” in the UK?

While the basic sign remains the same, some regions may have slight variations in facial expressions or hand movements.

What are some signs similar to “angry”?

Signs like “frustrated” or “mad” convey similar emotions and can be used in similar contexts.

What tips do you have for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to observe your facial expressions and hand movements. Watching others sign can also help.

Can I use “angry” to describe someone else’s feelings?

Yes, you can use the sign to describe others’ emotions by indicating the person first, e.g., “He is angry.”

How important are facial expressions when signing “angry”?

Facial expressions are crucial in BSL as they add context and intensity to the sign, especially for emotions.